Retropharyngeal pseudomeningocele presenting as dysphagia after atlantooccipital dislocation.

Publication/Presentation Date

9-1-2006

Abstract

EDUCATIONAL OBJECTIVE: At the conclusion of this paper, the readers should be able to recognize a retropharyngeal pseudomeningocele as a potential complication of atlanto occipital dislocation.

OBJECTIVES: To demonstrate how a retropharyngeal pseudomeningocele may present as dysphagia in a patient who is recovering from atlanto occipital dislocation as well as to discuss the treatment options in this situation.

STUDY DESIGN: Case report and literature review.

METHODS: Analysis of a case through medical record and literature review.

RESULTS: A retropharyngeal pseudomeningocele is a very rare complication of atlanto occipital dislocation. It may develop weeks after the initial injury and can present with respiratory or swallowing difficulties. Decompression via a ventriculoperitoneal or lumboperitoneal shunt facilitates resolution of the cerebral spinal fluid collection.

CONCLUSIONS: A retropharyngeal pseudomeningocele should be considered in all patients status post-atlanto occipital dislocation who are experiencing respiratory distress or dysphagia.

Volume

116

Issue

9

First Page

1697

Last Page

1699

ISSN

0023-852X

Disciplines

Business Administration, Management, and Operations | Health and Medical Administration | Management Sciences and Quantitative Methods

PubMedID

16955007

Department(s)

Administration and Leadership

Document Type

Article

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